Are there any beaches actually in Wells, England?
No, Wells is an inland city in Somerset and does not have any beaches itself. The nearest coastline is along the Bristol Channel, with popular seaside towns like Burnham-on-Sea and Weston-super-Mare being the closest options for a beach day trip.
How far is the nearest beach from Wells, Somerset?
The closest beaches to Wells are on the Somerset coast. For example, Burnham-on-Sea is approximately 15-18 miles away, which can take around 30-40 minutes to drive. Weston-super-Mare is a similar distance, around 17 miles from Wells.
What are the best beaches near Wells for a day trip?
Popular choices for a day trip from Wells include Burnham-on-Sea, known for its long sandy beach, and Weston-super-Mare, which offers a traditional seaside experience with its Grand Pier. Brean Beach is also a good option, especially for its extensive sands.
Can you swim in the sea at beaches near Wells?
Swimming is possible at some Somerset beaches like Minehead and the Marine Lake at Weston-super-Mare, which offers safe, all-year-round swimming. However, the Bristol Channel has a very high tidal range, and at some beaches like Burnham-on-Sea, swimming is not recommended at low tide due to soft mudflats. Always check local conditions and safety advice. Water quality can vary, with Porlock Weir often rated highly.
Are beaches near Wells good for families?
Yes, several beaches near Wells are family-friendly. Weston-super-Mare offers a classic family seaside experience with its pier and amusements. Burnham-on-Sea has a safe, sandy beach suitable for young children. Brean Beach provides ample space for games and picnics.
Are there dog-friendly beaches near Wells?
Yes, many beaches along the Somerset coast are dog-friendly, at least in parts or at certain times of the year. Brean Beach is known for being very dog-friendly year-round. Berrow Beach also welcomes dogs. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially during summer months.
How do I get to the coast from Wells using public transport?
Wells is connected by local bus services to coastal towns like Weston-super-Mare. For example, the 126 bus service connects Wells to Weston-super-Mare. You can also take a bus to Bristol Temple Meads or Bath Spa railway stations, which then have onward connections to coastal areas.
What's the parking like at beaches near Wells?
Parking availability and charges vary by beach. Popular beaches like Weston-super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea have multiple car parks, some with charges. Some smaller beaches or specific access points like Berrow Beach have had free parking at certain times or new car parks developed. It's advisable to check specific beach information before travelling.
When is the best time of year to visit beaches near Wells?
The summer months, from June to August, are generally considered the best time to visit beaches near Wells for warmer weather and more suitable conditions for swimming and sunbathing. However, spring and autumn can also be pleasant for coastal walks, with fewer crowds.
Are there any quieter, hidden gem beaches accessible from Wells?
While the main Somerset beaches can be busy, there are some quieter spots. Kilve Beach, known for fossil hunting and rock pools, offers a more rugged experience. Sand Bay, north of Weston-super-Mare, is often described as more tranquil. Glenthorne Beach, on the Exmoor coast, is very secluded but requires a significant walk.
What is the sand like on the beaches near Wells?
Beaches near Wells on the Somerset coast vary. Many, like Burnham-on-Sea and Brean, offer long expanses of sand, especially at low tide. Weston-super-Mare also has a large sandy beach. Some other beaches in the area can be a mix of sand, shingle, and pebbles, or predominantly rocky, like Kilve Beach.
Is Wells a good base for a beach holiday?
Wells itself is an inland cathedral city, not a traditional beach holiday destination. However, it can serve as a charming base for exploring Somerset, including day trips to the nearby coast, which is about a 30-40 minute drive away. If your primary focus is daily beach access, staying directly in a coastal town might be more convenient.
What are the tides like on the Somerset coast near Wells?
The Somerset coast, part of the Bristol Channel, experiences one of the highest tidal ranges in the world. This means the sea can go out a very long way, exposing large areas of sand and mudflats, particularly at beaches like Burnham-on-Sea and Weston-super-Mare. It's important to be aware of tide times, as the incoming tide can be fast.
Are there facilities like cafes and toilets at the beaches near Wells?
Yes, major beaches such as Weston-super-Mare and Burnham-on-Sea have good facilities including cafes, toilets, and shops along their promenades. Brean Beach also has amenities nearby. Smaller or more secluded beaches like Kilve or Sand Bay may have fewer or more basic facilities.
Can you go fossil hunting on beaches near Wells?
Yes, Kilve Beach, located along the Somerset coast (accessible from Wells), is particularly well-known as a good spot for fossil hunting due to its Jurassic limestone and shale. It's a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
